slammie On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:19 am

I’m impressed you can remember all those numbers. They ARE accurate, of course, right? Looks like you had a great time. Thanks for sharing. Family vacations are the things memories are made of. (Dang, that’s a horrible cliche, but it’s early)

4

Lesa H. On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:22 am

Looks like fun!!

5

Leslie H On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:22 am

Bearutiful vacation, Ree! It is so nice to get away for a while, but home is always best!

6

Beth M. On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:22 am

Glad you had a great vacation, I loved your post. Sigh of relief that you didn’t cook or have the urge to cook. Who would want to cook when you had that delicious food someone else prepared. Have a great day!

7

Barb J On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:22 am

Loved your vacation photos! You have such a beautiful family! Thanks for sharing! Now, I ALMOST want to try skiing again!

8

SandyW On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:23 am

So glad you hag a great time in Colorado. My daughter moved there with my grandchildren several years ago, so we visit now and again.

9

Rachae P. On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:23 am

Even on my best vacation EVER, I was thrilled/relieved/joyful at coming home. There’s truly no place like it. Looks like you guys had a fabulous time!

And I agree, if MM really, really, really loved you… he’d get you a black pug. Guess he’s got some ‘splainin’ to do.

Stephanie Malone On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:25 am

ah Ree, that story about your sno pants made me chuckle…and chuckle again all day! After Christmas feeling guilt about all the wonderful things I had eaten, I put my jeans on and they felt…well really tight in the uh, rear. Didn’t take too long though, to figure out that it was just my sock that had got accidently pushed up and deposited in the bum basket! What a relief that was!! thanks for your great posts!

13

Margaret N On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:26 am

It looks like it was a great vacation with great memories. And I am with you, I prefer skiing over snowboarding.

14

Theresa in Alberta On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:27 am

I am very glad and happy for you and your family that a good time was had by all and that all bones returned home safely intact Number of times I would have gone on the ski lift. 2 ….once to go up the hill, chicken out and once going back down the hill to the ski lodge to order a strong drink or two to help me get over the experience!

15

Cherrie On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:27 am

Boy, that sure looks fun!

16

Judy K On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:29 am

What wonderful memories and all in photos to last forever!

17

Jan Marie B. On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:31 am

Aww, it looks like such an amazing time! You’re all very blessed to have each other, and these awesome memories! Welcome home!

18

Leigh On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:33 am

Favorite pictures: jumping teenagers – too much fun! Excellent post

19

Lynn S On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:35 am

I absolutely love Sweet Basil. Everything on their menu is wonderful. Your picture brought back a lot of great memories of my time in Vail.

20

Lisa H On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:44 am

Thanks for the Vail pics….one of my favorite placed!! I love beets!!

21

Melissa in Texas On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:45 am

Glad you had a fun vacation! I love the black pug, can’t believe you didn’t come home with one! Thanks for sharing!

S On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:04 am

YOUgottagettaPug……….gotta

22

Tess in TN On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:48 am

Fun, fun photos, Ree! And now….. I’m off to find a black Pug.

23

Janet On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:54 am

Loved this. Are you going to recreate the meals?

24

Melissa On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:56 am

I live in ski country, Utah. My husband and kids ski, but it doesn’t fit me right. So I eat fondue, watch movies, and nap while they ski. Win-win! Psst, life’s short! Get that baby pug

25

tonia from kentucky On Wednesday, February 19 at 8:56 am

Looks like you had real fun….. but I would never choose to spend my vacation in snow lol I want sand, sun and water!!!! I really enjoyed your pictures and blog!!!

26

Robin C On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:02 am

Sporting Joe’s Clothers NICE!!!

27

Jean C On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:03 am

Approximately 50: the number of people I toppled when I lost my balance on the magic carpet and grabbed the post with the power button during my snowboarding lesson. Dominoes. Thanks for the reminder

Jean c On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:18 am

It was mortifying yet hilarious

28

Lori B On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:04 am

It looks like you had a great time, and I think MM should get you a black pug! Charlie would love another playmate. Glad all of you are home safe and sound

29

Monica On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:06 am

Love the Eskimo Joes shirts.

30

viv On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:14 am

Glad you and your loves are back home safe. Our family has always loved skiing (we live in CO) and they have continued on with their families. It is good to challenge ourselves every now and then and I think it is good for the kids to be able to excell in some things over their parents.

31

Mrs. Lucky On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:20 am

Always good to get away and most always to get back home.

32

Julia G. On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:28 am

Love the pictures and your statistics! And I’m with you I would rather ride the ski lift than ski. Or snow board. You have a lovely family!

Marie W On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:35 am

Karen On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:38 am

Love,love,love your photos! I was 12 when my family took a vacation to Colorado and still 42 years later has always been my absolute favorite one!! How is the weather in your neck of the woods? Have a great day!

36

Devon On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:41 am

Number of years I have followed your blog: 8

Number of times I break into a silly grin reading your blog: Too many to count

37

Anne P. On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:44 am

Looks like a great time was had by the Drummonds, all! Love your pics, and the special, funny way you narrate! One of the best things about vacation for me, is not having to cook…and having my meals brought to me, as I quaff my perfectly chilled wine! When one gets home, there is nothing like your very own bed! Yes, it’s always so much fun to go on a vacation get-away, but so, so good to get back home…if only someone else would do the unpacking….!!

38

Susan K On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:48 am

You cannot have enough family trips! Loved all the scenic pictures. I especially love all the action family shots. It is great how your family has so much fun together. Keep the stories and pictures coming they really do make me smile!

39

Shea Z On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:52 am

Looks like you all had a great time! I sure wish I could go skiing, although I would be like you and stick to the bunny hill and green runs.

40

Pharmmom65 On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:52 am

Ree- you have given me hope I will make it out of Vail alive in March…I will be there fro the first time in 35 years, and it will have been pre-kids (11 years) since I have been on skis….. .and that my kids may as well! I want the black pug too — if the kids see him, its all over for my husband!…. Curious — Can I have a suggestion on snow pants and jacket so I don’t completely freeze and can actually move my touché? I trust your fashion sense and need for mobility! LOL!

Stacy On Monday, February 24 at 4:45 pm

Hi Pharmmom–I worked at a ski shop for years, and I have skiied for 40+ years. I recommend a pair of North Face soft shell pants. They are comfortable, stretchy and classic. Buy a jacket that you like and can wear at other times. Make sure it has a ‘cover’ over it–no plain down with the quilting. Wind will go right through them. If it has down, you will be warm, just avoid the quilty ones. Wear two pairs of good long johns under your pants. If it’s warm weather, just one will work. Get good socks!! Cold feet can ruin a trip. I tend to sweat, even on the chilly days, so I change my socks at lunch. The same can go for hands. If you can’t buy two pairs of good mittens or gloves, buy one and then dry them at lunch. There should be coin dryers available. A good helmet is a great hat for warmth and safety. A neck gaiter is also invaluable. Have a wonderful time!

41

Karen L On Wednesday, February 19 at 9:54 am

Love the pics of both pups! Pugs are adorable but they do shed an awful lot, once read that pugs shed enough for a dog twice it’s size! A fun book to have is called The Good,the Bad and the Furry choosing the dog that’s right for you. By Sam Stall

Terry On Thursday, February 20 at 6:15 pm

That book sounds like a great idea…I can’t help but wonder how a pug will do with cattle. Does anyone know?

Living in Colorado this year I have had one ski experience-a challenge to myself to at least try it.
The best part of the day was taking my ski boots off at the end.
I’m blaming my lack of success on that knee that I broke at 18. (40 years ago.)
I really do want to try again….but…..but….
Glad that you had a breakthrough. Obviously that’s what I need, too!

There’s no place like home… there’s no place like home… there’s no place like home. So glad everyone enjoyed themselves, each in his/her own way. Hope you got at least one massage and used the hot tub for those sore muscles. You guys work hard; you deserve great vacations. Hugs and kisses.

58

Kathleen L On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:37 am

Good to have you and your family back home safe and sound. Loved the stories and photos of your vacation. You always seem to have such adventures! I love being in the snow, and I especially love watching the snow fall — it’s so peaceful and beautiful. But, I’ve never been on skis or a snowboard, and doubt I ever will be!

Manda J On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:39 am

Seeing these pics reminds me that I need to go there in winter to see it just once. My stepson lives in Denver and took me there in the Summer and it was so pretty. That pug melted me too!

61

Sue On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:40 am

What looks like a vacation made in heaven. We all hope you have another vacation just like this one soon. You have to be one of the busiest families around so a good long vacation is essential every now and again. It looks like a good time was had by all.
Back to the everyday routine of cooking and filming, along with a lot of ranch and remodel days. I remember all of this myself, but didn’t have a chance to share my wonderful life with anyone like you. We thank you for sharing all these special moments with us Ree and family.

Mary in NC On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:46 am

I know you had a wonderful time! Vail is truely a beautiful place…and the food ain’t to shabby either By the way, I’m a House Hunters International addict! Currently, I’m getting hooked on Island Hunters, too. With every program I run and get my dear husband, drag him into the living room, and show him where we are going to move….he always says, “ok”, knowing of course…. we are never going to move He’s such a good sport

66

Jenny J. On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:50 am

I’m going to Vail on my first ski trip (away from my home state of Michigan) ever. I’m beyond excited to try Sweet Basil, now! Thanks for the tip

dc On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:24 pm

Hope you have deep pockets. Did you see those prices!!!???

67

Misha On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:52 am

Love all the pictures. That pug would be a cute addition to the ranch!!

68

Stephanie On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:53 am

What a fantastic trip! We live close enough to the Sierras that it’s more of a day trip than a long trip (1 hour). One of these days, when our girls are older, we’ll go on a real ski vacation. I hope it’s to some place as beautiful as Vail.

Just to make you feel better……I have lived in Colorado since summer of ’86 and (chicken) have (chicken) never (chicken) gone (chicken) skiing (chicken) or snowboarding (chicken).
LoL
If you have beautiful snow scene photos, I would love to paint them! I’ll check your Flickr.

Glad you had such a great vacation! = )

70

Dianne Bell in Michigan On Wednesday, February 19 at 10:56 am

Loved your pics. Such beautiful
country! I hope one day I can take my two daughters there.
If not a Pug, how about a mini
Yorkshire Terrier. Ours is named
Pookie and she’s the sweetest &
just loves to play and cuddle.
I understand you being glad to be back home. There is NO place like HOME. Have a wonderful week!

71

Laurie On Wednesday, February 19 at 11:08 am

International House Hunters–10 times! Even on vacation!! We do love our HGTV and fun that you do, too!

What memories you’re making with your family…I love your writing, and your cooking! Keep up the amazing work you do.

73

Kaye B On Wednesday, February 19 at 11:17 am

Great pictures! Glad you had fun and that you all had a safe trip home. No place like home!!

74

Ceil On Wednesday, February 19 at 11:26 am

Great pictures. In my younger days, I dabbled on the bunny slopes by myself. In order to get on a ski lift with my friends and try something more challenging, I hired a ski instructor.
As we were going up the lift, he was giving me pointers on getting off without falling. All the while he was talking, I was marveling at his wonderful New Zealand accent and his gorgeous tanned face. Just as we were ready to “de-lift” he grabbed my arm which threw me off balance. I swung my arm out, hit him and accidently gave him a bloody nose…it was not pretty and he was definitely not happy! LOL

Number of times your posts/blog make me smile/laugh….Every time you post. Love to read your stories! Thanks for sharing.

79

Colleen F On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:15 pm

Always love your pictures! You capture the moment! Seeing Alex and Meg together, inseparable friends, makes me wonder, do they talk about where they’d like to attend college?

80

chapchap73 On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:17 pm

Thanks for the awesome photos….I just love all your stats:)

81

Kathleen A. On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:18 pm

Savor the wonderful times with your family! How fun!

82

LPara (Laurie) On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:26 pm

LOL what a pleasure to see the beautimous pics and read the play by play of your vacay! PS you’re right about the snowboarding, it’s for kids, elst why would hubs and I fast forward all of the snowboarding olympic runs ? pfft

as usual….reading your blog puts a big smile on my face. such joy to see this post and delightful family!

84

Denise On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:30 pm

Right after Christmas in 2012, my son went to Lake Tahoe with some friends and went snowboarding. He was 15 at the time and he loved it!! He’s a natural athlete and learned very quickly. His snowboarding instructor told them that if they had not skied before, snowboarding would be easy to learn, and vice versa. He constantly talks about going back. I must say I am enjoying watching snowboarding events in the Olympics, but it does look hard. Looks like you had a wonderful family vacation!

85

Kim On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:35 pm

Wish I could have pulled off one trip like that with my boys before they all left home. What a blessing.

86

Claudia On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:50 pm

Wonderful post…………………Welcome Back!!!!!

87

Leanne On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:54 pm

Number of times I love your words and pictures: Infinity!

88

angelitakarmalita On Wednesday, February 19 at 12:55 pm

My face hurts from smiling so hard…. I loved this post! and get a black pug. pleez, get one…. and I think we’ve already established this. No downhill sking/racing for you…. take ‘er easy….

My kiddos want to try skiing on our next vacation and I am willing to take them but I know my body will not allow me to join in on the fun. You are a brave woman! Fun to look at your pictures and hear your “numbers”.

90

Susan L On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:02 pm

Ree, the statistic I was most interested in learning was 0 cooking! And 0 wanting to cook was awesome! You cook so much on a daily basis, you deserved to be waited on. Glad you all made it home safe and sound! Any pictures of the cats and dogs welcoming you all back home? I will bet they were excited!

91

forever montana On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:04 pm

Great pictures! Vacations are fun, but it’s always so nice to get back home Thanks again for sharing and making me smile, smile, smile!!!

92

Tina On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:04 pm

It’s very pretty there, but I think I’d find the nearest fireplace and plant myself right there and watch everyone from inside where it’s nice and toasty.

This was so fun, what a great way to look at your vacation! One of my favorite things to do in a hotel room is catch up on Househunters and American Pickers! I never have time to sit and relax and watch them at home, and The Cowboy and I often end up having some pretty lively discussions while watching!

94

Bopper On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:22 pm

Sweet Basil is a wonderful restaurant in Vail! I’m so glad you and your family had a wonderful trip and got home safely! There’s nothing like home sweet home.

95

Christina Ayoub On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:32 pm

I always hate for vacation to end but I always love coming home:) Beautiful post! Thank you for sharing!

Carrie B On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:33 pm

So glad you are home safe and sound! Your photos are beautiful and what a treasure! Thank you for sharing with us.

98

Sydney Jo On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:42 pm

Thank you so much for the beautiful vacation pictures! I’m glad y’all had such a great time & you chose to share it all with your readers. Blessings

99

Melissa Smith On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:43 pm

I loved watching your ski vacation on this blog and facebook. I have skied Vail a few times (although I must confess I prefer Beaver Creek) and know exactly how you feel about the beautiful terrain/views and the end of day removal of ski boots. Please keep the pictures and blogs coming.

100

Dara Whitfield On Wednesday, February 19 at 1:44 pm

If we keep getting snow here in North Carolina, I’ll be able to ski in my front yard!! Love you show!!! Take care.

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Saturday, April 4: Freezer Fundamentals! While ranch work is going on outside, freezer work is going on inside! I share four more of my favorite freezer basics, which can be made into a whole bunch of different meals.